Francis V. Whalen

Obituary For Francis V. Whalen

Francis V. Whalen transitioned from this life on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at his home peacefully with a smile on his face. Francis was born May 7, 1934, in Newport, Maryland, the eldest of ten siblings to William Henry Whalen and Alice (Farmer) Whalen.

Francis attended Holly Spring School in Charles County, Maryland before enlisting in the United States Army in November 1956. He received an Honorable Discharge in October 1957 and continued to serve his country via his Army Reserve assignment.

After an esteemed military career, he continued to embody the values of honor and service. As a provider for his family, Mr. Whalen was employed by GATX until his retirement in 1982 after twenty years as a welder. He also worked several years as a truck driver for Fabulous Goldstein’s Furniture. His strong work ethic was exemplary and a model for others.

In 1952, Francis settled in Wheatland, Pennsylvania, where he met his cherished partner and love of his life, the former Elsie Delilah Jarrett, leading to a beautiful union on July 27, 1957, which bloomed into 58 years of profound love, devotion and companionship.

Embracing life's joys, Francis found pleasure spending time with his grandson “Shortie”, sharing culinary passions alongside Elsie, and appreciating the simplicity of family moments. While he enjoyed traveling with his family, he also appreciated sitting leisurely on his porch.

A man of wisdom and curiosity, Francis had a profound appreciation for history, literature, and craftsmanship, solidifying his status as a dedicated reader and a collector. A visionary, he saw value in procuring antiques, thrifting, woodworking, reupholstering. While others might quickly discard an item, Francis could see renewal, opportunity and intrinsic worth & value.

Francis leaves loving memories with his adoring daughters Sophia L. (Gwynn Oak, MD) and Maria "Re-Re" E. (Youngstown, OH). He was also revered by his grandson Francis "Shortie" V. (Austintown, OH). His enduring legacy will be sustained by his great grandchildren Elijah and Isabella Whalen.

Fondest memories will be retained by his sisters, who affectionately called him Mouse, Mary Whalen, Alice (James) Smoot, Irene Whalen and Shirley Tabb. Francis will be remembered by his dear friend & caregiver Dr. Larry Martin, whom he appreciated and also will leave a legion of family and friends.

As Francis crossed into eternity, he joins his ancestors which predeceased him which includes, his precious parents William & Alice Whalen, soul mate Elsie Whalen, dear sister Delores Washington, and beloved brothers James Irvin, William, Thomas and Calvin Whalen.

Family and friends are invited to gather in honor of Francis V. Whalen for public viewing in the chapel of the J. E. Washington Funeral Home, 2234 Glenwood Ave, in Youngstown, at 10:00 am on Friday, October 4, 2024. A Celebration of Life service will begin at 11:00 am and will be officiated by Rev. T. James Harrison.

The culmination of these observances will take place with a committal ceremony at Oakwood Cemetery, at 600 N Oakland Ave, Sharon, PA 16146, where Francis will be laid to rest. We bid farewell to this greatly loved father, brother and grandfather with the utmost respect and gratitude for the legacy he leaves behind.

At this most intimate time, the endearing family of Francis V. Whalen elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care and Professional After Care Arrangements with J. E. Washington Funeral Services,1059 Hamilton Ave, Farrell PA, 16121 724.983.1523